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OCTOBER 2013
Family matters A time for giving thanks and a time to give As we wrap up the Thanksgiving holiday and give thanks for all the support we’ve received this year, we wanted to take a moment to wish you all a very happy holiday season. May you be surrounded by loved ones and find time for sharing treasured moments together. Let us all keep perspective on what is truly important in our lives and use this season to celebrate those intangible gifts we are blessed with. These are trying economic times for us all, but more difficult for those in our community who live daily with their essential needs unmet. Bethesda Project’s mission to find and care for the abandoned poor and to be family with those who have none is more alive than ever today. We have opened up our winter shelters at full capacity and are ready to open up the Bethesda Café at Broad Street Ministry on December 15. Part of the Bethesda Beacon, these winter programs engage shelterresistant homeless individuals through patient and persistent outreach and by providing daytime drop-in
hours to offer referrals to housing and treatment programs. Last year we had an extraordinary success rate – moving 30% of the 378 men and women that stayed at the Café to better housing and treatment. Your continued support of Bethesda Project makes this possible. On this #GivingTuesday, would you consider making a gift to Bethesda Project this holiday season? Visit http://bethesdaproject.org/get-involved/contribute to donate today. We thank you and wish you a great holiday season!
Guest column: In his own words
My name is Michael and I live at My Brother's House. I was raised in a loving family with two parents and a dog. I am college educated and worked in the hospitality field for many years, something I enjoyed very much. In 2000 I became very ill. It was not long after that I found myself homeless. I did what most homeless do— imposed on family and friends which turned into a nightmare. After being on the streets I was ready to end my life and I tried, but God had other plans. After watching me walk aimlessly, Bethesda staff member Misty— my angel—offered to help me and placed me at Bethesda. My life has changed so much since. I catch myself singing sometimes I am so happy. My dear friends, I pray none of you will ever know how horrible it is to find a private place to perform daily hygiene. Your continued prayers and contributions allow people like me to hold on to human dignity. Thank you.